This City Has Been Named the Most Dangerous City to Live in Illinois

By Mia Davis On Jan 16, 2024

Illinois boasts a robust economy, diverse cultures, and a wealth of history. However, it deals with crime and violence like any other area, particularly in some cities. Mount Vernon, an approximately 14,000-person tiny town, is regarded as the most dangerous city in Illinois to live in, per the most recent FBI data.

Why is Mount Vernon Such a Dangerous Place?

With over 1,760 violent crimes for per 100,000 residents, Mount Vernon has a high crime rate. This exceeds both the state and national averages by three times. Crimes classified as violent include robbery, rape, murder, and serious assault. The city recorded 66 robberies, 10 murders, 29 rapes, and 179 violent assaults in 2019.

Mount Vernon’s property crime rate, which stands at 6,271 incidents per 100,000 residents, is also reason for concern. This exceeds both the state and national averages by more than double. Theft of motor vehicles, larceny, and burglary are examples of property crimes.

The reasons and effects of Mount Vernon’s criminal problem

Mount Vernon’s crime problems stem from a number of concerns, such as poverty, unemployment, drug abuse, gang involvement, and inadequate educational opportunities.

The U.S. Census Bureau reports that Mount Vernon has a poverty rate of 28.5%, which is almost twice as high as the state average of 14.4%. The city has a higher than normal unemployment rate of 6.3% compared to the state’s 5.5%, and a higher than average rate of drug overdose deaths per 100,000 population (31.8 against 23.8).

The history of Mount Vernon includes gang violence, which is characterized by killings and shootings. The educational attainment of adults in the city is likewise low; only 16.5% have a bachelor’s degree or more, whereas the state’s rate is 35.6%.

The quality of life, public safety, and economic prosperity of Mount Vernon are all negatively impacted by this high crime rate. Because they constantly run the possibility of being victims of crime, the residents live in fear.

Businesses and investors are put off by the crime problem because they fear for their customers’ safety and property. Additionally, Mount Vernon spends more on criminal justice and law enforcement, which takes money away from vital public services and infrastructure.

Potential Solutions for Mount Vernon’s Criminal Problem

Resolving the crime issue in Mount Vernon is neither simple nor quick. Collaboration between the government, law enforcement, community, and social service providers is necessary. Among the concepts are:

1. More Police in High-Crime Areas: To stop and prevent crimes and apprehend offenders, increase police presence and resources, particularly in high-crime areas.

2. neighborhood Policing and Outreach: Launch initiatives that allow police to interact with the public, earn their trust, and collaborate to resolve concerns in the neighborhood.

3. Education and Employment: Give adults and youth greater access to education and employment opportunities. This keeps people away from gangs and crime, helps alleviate poverty, and offers a chance for a better life.

4. Drug Prevention and Treatment: Enhance initiatives to stop drug use, cut down on the availability of illicit substances, and assist addicts in getting well and reintegrating into society.

5. Community Involvement: Motivate locals to participate in neighborhood events. This promotes reporting and thwarting crime, as well as aiding witnesses and victims, and it fosters a feeling of accountability and belonging.

Conclusion

According to FBI data, Mount Vernon is the most dangerous city in Illinois to live in. Numerous violent and property crimes occur in the city, which are impacted by various social and economic variables.

The city and its citizens are greatly impacted by the crime problem, which necessitates cooperation from all parties. Mount Vernon has the potential to develop into a safer and wealthier neighborhood if the crime issue is dealt with quickly and effectively.